What is plate mounting tape?

Plate mounting tape, also known as flexographic plate mounting tape or flexo tape, is a type of adhesive tape used in the printing industry, specifically in the flexographic printing process. Flexography is a versatile printing method commonly used for printing on various flexible substrates such as paper, cardboard, plastic, and more. Plate mounting tape plays a crucial role in this process by securely attaching the printing plates to the printing cylinder or sleeve.

Key features and characteristics of plate mounting tape include:

1. Adhesive Properties: Plate mounting tape typically has adhesive on both sides. One side adheres to the back of the flexible printing plate, while the other side adheres to the printing cylinder or sleeve.

2. Thickness and Compressibility: The tape is available in different thicknesses, and its compressibility is a crucial factor. The compressibility of the tape helps in achieving a consistent and even impression during the printing process.

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4. Tight Tolerance Control: Plate mounting tapes are manufactured with tight tolerance control to ensure precision and accuracy in the printing process. This is especially important for achieving high-quality prints.

5. Durability: The tape must be durable enough to withstand the stresses and pressures of the printing process without losing its adhesive properties or causing plate movement.

6. Material Compatibility: Plate mounting tapes are designed to be compatible with various printing plate materials, including photopolymer plates and rubber plates.

7. Easy Removal: While the tape needs to provide a strong bond during the printing process, it should also allow for easy removal of the printing plates for maintenance or replacement.

The selection of plate mounting tape depends on factors such as the type of printing press, the printing substrate, and the specific requirements of the printing job. Different manufacturers produce plate mounting tapes with varying characteristics to meet the diverse needs of the printing industry.

Proper plate mounting is crucial for achieving accurate registration, consistent print quality, and minimizing printing defects. Printers often choose plate mounting tapes based on the specific demands of their printing applications to optimize the efficiency and performance of the flexographic printing process.